Slate (Clapperboard)
Definition
The Slate (also called a clapperboard, clapper, or sticks) is a hinged board used at the beginning of each take to identify the scene, take number, roll number, director, and production title on camera. The sharp visual and auditory "clap" of the hinged sticks at the top of the board provides a synchronization point used in post-production to align the separately recorded picture and sound. Modern slates often include a timecode display for more precise synchronization.
Contextual Usage
The camera assistant holds the slate in front of the lens and announces, "Camera A, Scene 14B, Take 5," before snapping the sticks together and stepping out of frame. The director calls "Action."
About this section
Production — or "principal photography" — is the phase in which the film or video is actually shot. It is the most visible and, typically, the most expensive phase of the entire process. Every day on ...
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